By now you know that Charleston, SC has been voted #1 Tourist Destination in the US by Conde Nast Traveler (three years running), #1 City in the World by Travel + Leisure, along with heaps of other accolades and “top ” or “best ” lists. Sure, Charleston is chock-full of American history, beautiful weather, incredible beaches and charming houses … but what sets Charleston apart from other “top cities ” is that it’s home to some of the best events and festivals in the U.S.! Mark your calendar now because event season in Charleston kicks off in January 2020 … and moves headlong into the Spring!
Early spring in Charleston marks festival season – a time when out-of-towners flock to the Holy City. Expos of food, wine, antiques, and athletes are held all around the lowcountry, and during these times everyone just seems a little bit more cheerful! We’re lucky to live in this city, where some of the best events in the country are held.
Here are some that should make your “must attend ” list:
37th annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival – January 26, 2020
In true lowcountry form, festival season begins with the 37th Annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation, hosted by the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association. Here’s your perfect immersion into lowcountry culture at an iconic and historic plantation. With 80,000 pounds of oysters, live music and eating contests, this is the largest oyster roast in the world and is the perfect kick-off to event season in Charleston.
Southeastern wildlife expo – February 14-16, 2020
Known as SEWE, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition celebrates nature through fine art, highlighting conservation, education and demonstrations. One night you can break out your tux and ball gown at the Gala while perusing fine art, and the next day you can attend rare wildlife exhibits, feed the animals with over 40,000 attendees. It’s actually the largest event of its kind in the country and hosts hundreds of exhibitors, artists and wildlife experts.
Charleston Wine + Food Festival: March 4 – March 8, 2020
The annual BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival® showcases Charleston’s rich culinary and hospitality culture. This is a can’t miss event for the foodie and sommelier as it highlights top area restaurants, chefs, winemakers and beer experts. You can really experience all of the flavors unique to the lowcountry.
Charleston Fashion Week: March 13-17, 2018
Presented by Lexus, Charleston Fashion Week is hosted in the heart of the city in beautiful Marion Square. For five days, you can witness emerging designers and model talent from across the U.S. as they make their pathway to New York. Since founding the event in 2007, it’s quickly become a premier fashion week in the U.S.
14th Annual Charleston Antiques Show: March 5-8, 2020
The rich history of Charleston makes it the perfect place for an antiques show. With the Historic Charleston Foundation celebrating its 73rd year, the 2020 event promises to delight seasoned collectors, enthusiasts and visitors alike. Learn about incorporating antiques into modern-day decor, history and value of 17th-, 18th- and 19th Century antiques at the Giallard Center.
71st Annual Festival of Houses & Gardens: March 15 – April 21, 2018
Throughout Charleston’s Old & Historic Districts are some of America’s most beautiful and historic residences. Thanks to the Historic Charleston Foundation, you have a month-long opportunity to get a rare glimpse into these private homes and gardens. The tours are a series of educational events to highlight the unique architecture, culture, history and gardens in Charleston.
Volvo Car Open: April 4 – April 12, 2020
Charleston SC is the proud home of the premier Volvor Car Open and has been for the last 17 years. A tournament that began in 1973 in Hilton Head SC is now the largest “women’s only ” tennis tournament in the U.S. and hosts close to 100,000 spectators and 90 world-class women athletes. Throughout the tournament weekend, you can find shopping, music and dining attractions (check out our blog on hidden gems of the Charleston dining scene) if the “game-set-match ” isn’t enough excitement for you.
40th Annual Cooper River Bridge Run: Saturday, April 4, 2018
The Ravenel Bridge is one of the most iconic features of Charleston… so why not shut it down to let thousands of locals and visitors run across it?! This 10K race across the Cooper River Bridge is the largest race in South Carolina and offers not only exercise, but entertainment featuring top local and regional bands!
44th annual Spoleto Festival USA: May 22 – June 7, 2018
As Charleston’s premier arts event, Spoleto Festival USA is internationally recognized as America’s premier performing arts festival. Renowned artists in music and dance flood our historic theatres and outdoor spaces to showcase their incredible talents in this 17-day and night festival.
With all of these great events and beautiful weather, you really can’t beat Charleston in the spring. Whether you’re a local looking for a “staycation, ” or a visitor looking to experience one of these world-class Charleston events, start looking now to book a luxury vacation rental in Charleston through our Luxury Simplified Retreats team. Whether you want to stay downtown nearby to some of the hottest events, or relax at one of our luxury beach front homes, our Concierge team can help you plan your getaway so that you don’t miss a minute of the fun!
Interested in Learning More?
Our expert teams - from development, investment, real estate, and property management - have experienced it all and have the insight to help you along the way.
Find Out More